The Hasso Plattner Institute offers degree programs in “IT Systems Engineering” that are unique Germany-wide. It is a practical form of computer science study that places special emphasis on the conception and development of complex software systems. The education at Hasso Plattner Institute is tuition free.

Research in HPI’s topic areas is carried out in Potsdam and internationally at the Hasso Plattner Institute Research School. It is distinguished by its high scientific standard, practical approach and close cooperation with industry. The primary focus of HPI’s research is on highly complex IT systems.

Hasso Plattner Institute holds an unique position on the landscape of German universities. Research and teaching are concentrated in the area of IT systems engineering. The highly ranked Bachelor, Master and PhD degree programs have a high practical and innovation orientation. Design Thinking spans a bridge between Hasso Plattner Institute in Potsdam and Hasso Plattner Institute of Design in Stanford.

The Hasso Plattner Institute has educational programs for both high school students and working professionals. It operates its own IT learning platform - openHPI - which provides free online courses. The Youth Academy organizes computer science camps and events for high school students. Professionals can take advantage of educational opportunities in the field of Design Thinking at the HPI Academy.

Master's Program: IT Systems Engineering

Application

If you already hold a Bachelor´s Degree in the field of IT Systems Engineering or in a similar equivalent field of studies, and if you have achieved excellent grades as part of that degree and are interested in our study goals and content, we look forward to receiving your application.

Our capacity is limited due to the fact that we guarantee our Master´s students small study groups and the support of an individual professor. 60 students are accepted into the Master´s Program each year. Enrollment is possible in summer and winter semester. The application deadline is January 15 for summer semester and July 15 for winter semester. Submitted applications are evaluated by the Master´s Program Admissions Board at our institute.

Goal of the Master´s Program - Preparation for Leadership Positions

Graduates from the Master´s Program are given the academic and practical tools needed to take up leading industry positions such as system architects and project managers.

Study Content

The study content of the Master's Program is predominantly process-oriented. The processes of development, distribution and use of software systems play a great role in the program. The prerequisite for entry into the Master's program is the completion of product-oriented academic training.

In addition to specializations in IT engineering, students also acquire so-called "soft skills" which form a major part of successful project management in software project development.

Basic Topics

IT-Systems Engineering- Analysis, Design, Engineering, Maintenance

Two Specializations- Concepts and Methods, Technologies and Tools and Specialization